Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co and Gowlings have struck a deal with Weetabix to advise the company on its global intellectual property (IP) needs.
The company is the first major new IP client to be won by the firms since they announced their Anglo-Canadian merger last year. The combination is set to go live next month when the firm changes its name to Gowling WLG.
Gowlings IP partner Shelagh Carnegie and Wragges partner IP Kate Swaine will lead the team. The pair will work closely with Weetabix general counsel Chris Thomas.
Weetabix is the UK’s second largest cereal manufacturer and the team will be responsible for the global management, protection and enforcement of the company’s brand portfolio.
Wragges chief executive David Fennell said the merger enabled the firm to offer a broader and deeper range of service as well as the multi-jurisdictional support Weetabix required.
Following the merger IP work will be at the centre of Gowling WLG’s global offering. As well as IP work the firm will focus its practice on the advance manufacturing, energy and natural resources, technology, and life sciences sectors.
The new firm will operate from 18 locations and employ more than 1,400 lawyers and legal professionals.